Designed by Portugal’s Madeiguincho, the Brava tiny house is a masterful blend of timber craftsmanship and efficient space utilization, perfect for a cozy dwelling for two. Measuring just 12 square meters, this compact abode is a testament to Madeiguincho’s deep-rooted expertise in woodworking, honed over years by a family of carpenters. Situated on a picturesque farm in the Portuguese countryside, the Brava serves as a tranquil retreat for an artist and her daughter. Despite its small footprint, the Brava is thoughtfully designed with a space-saving layout that maximizes functionality without compromising comfort. The exterior boasts a charming wooden finish and a small porch area, extending the living space and providing a delightful spot for outdoor dining and relaxation.

Inside, the Brava continues to impress with its rustic yet elegant decor. The interior features a combination of plywood finishes and distressed furniture, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements its rural setting. Entered through double glass doors, the ground floor includes a multi-functional raised double bed that doubles as a day bed, equipped with integrated storage to optimize space. The compact kitchen, adjacent to the bed, is efficiently designed with a sink, cabinetry, and basic cooking facilities, seamlessly connected to a bathroom with a toilet, sink, and shower. Additionally, a storage-integrated staircase leads to a loft-style bedroom with a low ceiling and a double bed, typical of tiny home designs. While the Brava’s pricing remains undisclosed, its meticulous design and craftsmanship make it an ideal small-scale home.

Madeiguincho’s wooden sauna frames embrace the picturesque Portuguese landscape with a design that seamlessly blends into the lush surroundings of rural Portugal. The symmetrically designed facade of the sauna mirrors the natural environment, creating a harmonious integration that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal. Elevated on a platform perched on a sloping rock, the sauna provides breathtaking panoramic views of the verdant scenery. The layout comprises two rooms, divided by a central axis, efficiently organizing the space to define the sauna and bathing areas. This thoughtful arrangement not only connects the sauna to the main house but also provides access to the rooftop, creating a multifunctional and interconnected space.

As one ascends to the suspended platform, two entrances unveil themselves—one leading to the sauna room and the other to the bathing room. The sauna side offers a cozy and inviting space with its panoramic views, while the bathing room beckons with comfort and practicality. A metal bathtub extends to an outdoor balcony, offering a refreshing experience with an invigorating ice-cold bath accompanied by the scenic beauty of the landscape. Utilizing cryptomeria japonica wood from the Azores, the project not only ensures sustainability but also infuses the sauna with an aromatic ambiance that complements the various temperatures within. The connecting corridor, featuring a hanging cold-water bucket, serves as a unifying element between the sauna and bathing spaces, contributing to the symmetrical beauty of the facade. Extending to the main house and rooftop, this corridor shapes a contemplative lounge where one can enjoy views of the mountains and sea, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and introspection to conclude the immersive sauna experience by Madeiguincho.